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The depth of your decomposed granite depends on its intended use, but around 3 to 4 inches is the most common depth. Driveways that need to support a lot of weight should be at a depth of no less than 6 inches. Walkways that won’t see a lot of weight but lots of foot traffic should be built at a depth of 3 to 4 inches, and patios should also be between 3 and 4 inches deep.

A good driveway should have a solid base layer and a smooth surface layer of gravel. A base layer of larger gravel, around 1 to 2 inches, keeps the foundation stable and helps with drainage. For the top layer, smaller gravel, about 1/4 to 1/2 inches, compacts well and creates an even surface that’s easier to drive on. Using both ensures the driveway stays durable, drains properly, and doesn’t shift over time.

Food-grade diatomaceous earth is a natural product that comes from diatoms—fossilized aquatic organisms from tens of millions of years ago. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is considered "natural," while pool or filter-grade diatomaceous earth has been treated and transformed to have higher crystalline silica content.

When it rains, decomposed granite can become muddy and mushy in texture and start to wash away, leading to erosion of the surface. Decomposed granite’s inability to endure heavy rainfall is one of its biggest drawbacks.